Over the years that we've been involved in western some of the most common questions have been about training the young western horse. People are often unsure about where to start. We'd always advise people to act responsibly and either send their horse to a properly qualified professional or, if that isn't an option, to get the best advice you can afford.

We're lucky that we have access to Judith's knowledge, based on more than 30 years of experience starting horses. Some of you will already have seen Judith's articles in the Equine Canine & Country Life magazine, and the diary she's maintained of Woody's progress. Hopefully that will have given you an idea of the amount of effort that goes into the training of a good western horse. As an added bonus, however, on this website you can follow the progress of Judy's 3 year old "Skooter" as she begins her ridden career.

Skooter is a grulla and white home-bred American Paint x Traditional Cob, foaled in 2007. She's owned by Judy Jones and trained (and shown) by Judith Hubbard. This blog records her progress from being backed to being prepared for her first shows under saddle. We hope that this will be very informative for those of you who may have youngsters at home. We certainly think it will be interesting!
	Picture: Skooter (a.k.a. Skip 'n Dazzle) aged 4 weeks